Heart Evangelista reveals she is related to Jodi Sta. Maria

It seems that beauty and talent run in this family!

During an Instagram Live session last April 4, showbiz icon Heart Evangelista confirmed that she is related to another prominent figure in the industry, Jodi Sta. Maria.  

“Yes, Jodi Sta. Maria is my cousin from my mother’s side,” she responded to a fan’s question. “She’s my second cousin.”  

Heart admitted having only discovered their relationship a few years after entering the industry. “I didn't even know she’s my cousin ‘til a few years of show business,” she shared.

The fashion icon even compared her cousin to Natalie Portman, saying that she is "a great actress."

“Jodi is a great actress from the Philippines and she’s like a Natalie Portman exactly. Super beautiful, super expressive eyes. I love her,” she continued.

Coming from rival networks, both actresses are highly respected in the industry. Heart is a familiar name when it comes to acting and, of course, fashion. According to Launchmetrics' Milan Fashion Week Fall/Winter 2024 data, she ranked third with a media impact value of $3.6 million.

Jodi, on the other hand, is an acclaimed actress who has been awarded several awards throughout her career. She was awarded the Best Lead Actress at the 2022 Asian Academy Creative Awards for her role in The Broken Marriage Vow.